David M. Larson, a member of the University of Minnesota's Board of Regents, died Saturday at age 70, the university announced Monday.

Larson, a retired Cargill executive, was serving his second six-year term on the board. He was first elected in 2005.

The university said he died after a brief illness.

"The entire University of Minnesota community is saddened by the news that our friend and colleague has passed away," said Board of Regents Chairman Richard Beeson.

He called Larson "a passionate advocate for students" and added: "We will miss him dearly."

Larson, of Wayzata, endowed the university's Larson Scholarship, which has benefited 350 students since 2008.

David Larson

Eric Kaler, the university's president, said that Larson "gave generously of his time, wisdom and philanthropy because he cared deeply for students and understood the power of education to change lives."

Larson, the former president of Cargill's Animal and Nutrition Poultry Group, retired in 2010 after a 44-year career at the company.

Larson's term on the board of regents was due to end in 2017.

A spokesman for Gov. Mark Dayton's office said a successor likely would be appointed after the Legislature convenes in January.

Maura Lerner • 612-673-7384